Montana congressional delegation urges bipartisan action on wildfires, energy and infrastructure

U.S. Representative Ryan Zinke, U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy and U.S. Representative Troy Downing told a joint session of the Montana Legislature that while they differ on particulars, Montanans should work together to address wildfire response, energy production, infrastructure and economic stability.

The delegation framed their priorities as practical steps to protect communities and local jobs. "We burn more 2 by fours than we ever harvested last year," U.S. Representative Ryan Zinke said, describing forest health and wildfire risks and urging collaborative solutions across agencies. U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy said, "I work for you, plain and simple," and urged the Legislature to pursue policies that bring down prices for families and strengthen public safety. U.S. Representative Troy Downing emphasized local problem‑solving: "Government closest to the people has the most effect…